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Astronaut students training in free-fall C013 / 5114
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Astronaut students training in free-fall C013 / 5114
Astronaut students training in free-fall. Astronaut candidates from both NASA and the Japanese space agency (JAXA) experiencing free-fall in a training aircraft. This parabolic trajectory, flown in a KC-135 aircraft over the Gulf of Mexico, produces a few seconds of free-fall, replicating spaceflight conditions in Earth orbit. In a typical flight, 40 to 60 parabolas are flown (65 seconds each), with 25 seconds of free-fall each time. The US candidates here include Randolph James Bresnik (born 1967, left) and Shannon Walker (born 1965, right). Both have since flown missions in space. Photographed on 13 October 2004
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Media ID 9195755
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2004 Aeronautical Aeronautics Aeroplane Aircraft Airplane Astronaut Astronauts Aviation Falling Flight Floating Gulf Of Mexico Happy In Flight Inside Interior Japan Japanese Laughing Nasa Oriental Padded Parabola Smiling Space Flight Spaceflight Student Students Thirties Training Weightless Women Candidate Candidates Free Fall Free Falling Kc 135
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the exhilarating experience of astronaut students training in free-fall. The image showcases a group of astronaut candidates from both NASA and the Japanese space agency (JAXA) as they undergo rigorous training inside a KC-135 aircraft over the Gulf of Mexico. This unique parabolic trajectory allows for several seconds of weightlessness, simulating conditions experienced during spaceflight in Earth's orbit. In this particular shot taken on October 13,2004, two notable candidates can be seen: Randolph James Bresnik and Shannon Walker. Both individuals went on to embark on successful missions in space after this training session. Their joyous expressions and laughter reflect the sheer excitement and wonderment that comes with floating freely within an aircraft cabin. During each flight, approximately 40 to 60 parabolas are flown, lasting around 65 seconds each with a remarkable 25 seconds of true free-fall time. As these aspiring astronauts navigate through their padded surroundings, their smiles radiate happiness and determination amidst this technological marvel. The photograph not only highlights the diverse mix of male and female candidates but also emphasizes international collaboration between American and Japanese agencies in advancing human exploration beyond our planet's boundaries. It serves as a testament to mankind's unwavering spirit for discovery while showcasing the cutting-edge technology employed by NASA/JAXA to prepare future astronauts for their extraordinary journeys into space.
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